MedicinePOMEssential

Desmopressin

Nasal spray that replaces antidiuretic hormone in central diabetes insipidus.

Clinical information

Common uses

central diabetes insipidus (adults and children 4+)

Common side effects

headache
blocked or runny nose
nosebleed
feeling sick
flushing

Cautions

can cause low blood sodium — fluid intake must be limited
not for people with kidney impairment or low sodium
nasal problems can change how much medicine is absorbed

Interactions

oxybutynin and imipramine — low-sodium convulsions reported
other drugs raising low-sodium risk — extra monitoring
vasoconstrictor medicines — may raise blood pressure

Pregnancy: generally safe in pregnancy — no risk identified over decades of use

Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: DailyMed, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov, desmopressin acetate nasal spray label, setid 8034989a-45f5-436b-8b1f-42108ee2a21a (accessed 2026-08-16)

Approved brands & formulations8

Brand name	Dosage form	Strength	Importer	Category
Desmopressin	Nasal preparations ( Spray )	0.1 mg / ml	—	POM
Desmopressin	Nasal preparations ( Spray )	0.2 mg /ml	—	POM
Desmopressin	Tablet	60mcg	—	POM
Desmopressin	Tablet	0.5 mg/ml	—	POM
Desmopressin	Tablet	0.2 mg	—	POM
Desmopressin	Tablet	0.1 mg	—	POM
Desmopressin	Parenteral ( Injection )	4mcg / ml	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	hospital
Desmopressin	Tablet	120mcg	—	POM